1. < Head & Neck Cancer

Difficulty swallowing liquids

Posted by steve55 @steve55, 6 days ago

I’m 69 and about 22 years out from throat cancer. I was treated with three rounds of chemo and 6 weeks radiation. My swallowing issues have developed in the last 4-5 years, fortunately prior to that I had little problems.
I have not seen many posts on swallowing liquid which I find difficult. I also have problems swallowing food which there are many post on . Most of my liquids are swallowed when eating, at that time water goes down easier.
Does anyone deal with similar issues?

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steve55 | @steve55 | 1 day ago
In reply to @josk "Hi Steve ... even in my case - going back to 14-15 yrs - there was..." + (show)
@josk

Hi Steve ... even in my case - going back to 14-15 yrs - there was not much emphasis placed on how important and/or critical it is to do exercises to the mouth and jaw. Since I was able to eat, swallow, drink, and talk (except for hearing) just like prior to treatment - I did not place much emphasis and importance on the exercises (and I was not aware at all of the late effects of radiation on HNC survivors).
Agree - a lot of advancements in medicine now, but believe there is nothing yet to stop or delay the late effects of radiation - except EXERCISES !
A promise to myself - like you - I exercise daily - about 10 - 15 mins. This is to avoid and/or keep at bay having a feeding tube inserted in me for intake of nutrition (per my oncologist in PMCC - he has patients who needs a feeding tube inserted due to swallowing issues).
For info - I live on my own, and am usually on my own when driving - thus I try to stretch my jaw and open wide my mouth -- when and if I remember !!
Take care !!

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To Josh and everyone else who weighed in, thanks for the input and suggestions. My first time posting a question but not my last. This is a great support group. Happy Thanksgiving to all even though it’s a holiday mostly about eating.

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